Use Separate Containers for Used Fluids

In automobile repair and maintenance shops, multiple types of fluids are handled, including antifreeze, brake fluid, engine oil, transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid, and others. Each of these fluids have different properties, hazards, and disposal methods. Having a separate disposal container for each of these fluids can simplify the disposal process and, ultimately, reduce costs.

While it is tempting to mix all waste fluids, this can increase disposal costs. When these fluids are mixed, they have to be disposed of as hazardous waste, which increases disposal costs and has other associated risks. For example, used antifreeze is generally considered non-hazardous, but if it is mixed with oil or other petroleum-based fluids, it must be treated as hazardous. Therefore, using a separate container to store used antifreeze allows it to be processed for either recycling or disposal as non-hazardous waste. Likewise, some of the other fluids can be recycled or reclaimed if they are not contaminated.

Additionally, many jurisdictions have legal provisions that demand that used fluids be stored and disposed of differently depending on their type. Thus, by using different containers, shops can avoid violations of these regulations and the penalties that result.

Therefore, the practice of having different receptacles for the disposal of used fluids is not only a sound waste disposal procedure in automobile repair and maintenance facilities that can reduce costs, but is also a step toward environmental sustainability.